Prohibits discrimination against pregnant women who have not received COVID-19 vaccine.
The bill is significant in the context of existing legal frameworks surrounding vaccination mandates and civil rights protections. By explicitly protecting pregnant women from discrimination based on their COVID-19 vaccination status, it aims to ensure that these women retain their rights to participate fully in society without facing penalties. The legislation provides for civil damages of $25,000 for violations, reflecting a strong stance against discriminatory practices and reinforcing the legal protections available to this vulnerable population.
Assembly Bill A3375, introduced in New Jersey, aims to prohibit discrimination against pregnant women who have not received a COVID-19 vaccine or booster. Specifically, the bill makes it unlawful to inquire about a pregnant woman's vaccination status or require her to show proof of vaccination as a condition for exercising rights or privileges under state or federal laws. This includes areas like employment, education, public service access, and more, ensuring that pregnant women are not subjected to undue pressure or consequences regarding their vaccination choices.
While the intention behind A3375 is to safeguard pregnant women's rights, the bill may encounter debate and contention in legislative discussions. Critics could raise concerns about public health considerations and the implications of allowing exemptions from vaccine mandates, especially in environments where vaccination could affect public safety, such as schools and healthcare facilities. Proponents, on the other hand, argue that the bill is vital in protecting individual rights and bodily autonomy, and it champions the need for equitable treatment for pregnant women, irrespective of their vaccination status.